A UK seaside town descended into "absolute chaos" overnight as several cars were torched.

Some families in Hartlepool, County Durham, were even evacuated from their homes in the early hours of this morning (Friday, August 18) due to the fires.

Cleveland Police were first called regarding the vehicle fires at around 2.20am. Firefighters also responded to the blazes.

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Residents said they banged on windows to raise the alarm as cars just metres from homes went up in flames, reports TeesideLive.

One resident said: "Ten cars torched on our street and neighbouring streets, absolute chaos. Had to bang the owner awake."

Cleveland Police said a "small number" of families were evacuated while firefighters were in the area. People were told to avoid Caledonian Road, Baden Street, Shrewsbury Street, Lansdowne Road, Osborne Road and Brinkburn Road as the fires were being dealt with.

"Emergency services are currently dealing with multiple vehicle fires across the Hartlepool area. Police received report of fires on Caledonian Road, Baden Street, Shrewsbury Street, Lansdowne Road, Osborne Road, and Brinkburn Road," the force said earlier this morning

"A small number of residents have been evacuated and officers are urging people to avoid the area whilst emergency services deal with the incident."

Anyone with any information has been asked to contact Cleveland Police online or by calling 101 quoting incident 164288.

It came after another fire in Hartlepool earlier on Thursday (August 17).

The Northern Echo reported multiple fire engines were scrambled to tackle the blaze on Windermere Road, which could be seen from miles around.

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